Scammers are already using fraudulent methods to attain your personal information with the CARES relief payment issuance to individuals. Because many of these stimulus payments are to be issued by direct deposit, scammers are “phishing” by phone calls, text messages, or emails to pretend to verify your banking information. The IRS will NOT call, text, or email you to verify banking or other personal information for stimulus payments. Do NOT click on any links or provide information on websites provided by these fake requests. HERE is information from the Federal Trade Commission regarding potential scam attempts for stimulus checks.